In a significant development at the 38th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). The election, held on February 15, 2025, saw Youssouf emerge victorious after seven rounds of voting, securing the required two-thirds majority from the 55 member states.
Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005, brings a wealth of diplomatic experience to the role. His career includes a tenure as Djibouti’s ambassador to Egypt, highlighting his extensive involvement in regional and international affairs.
The election process was highly competitive, featuring prominent candidates such as Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya, and Richard Randriamandrato, ex-Foreign Minister of Madagascar. Odinga led the initial rounds; however, Youssouf gained momentum in the subsequent ballots, ultimately securing the chairmanship.
Youssouf’s election comes at a critical time for the African continent, which is grappling with various challenges, including political instability in West Africa and ongoing conflicts in regions like eastern Congo. As the new AUC Chairperson, Youssouf is expected to address these pressing issues and work towards enhancing unity and development across member states.
In his acceptance speech, Youssouf emphasized the importance of collective action and solidarity among African nations to overcome the continent’s challenges. He pledged to strengthen the AU’s role in promoting peace, security, and economic growth, aiming to position Africa as a formidable player on the global stage.
The outgoing Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, who has led the AUC since 2017, congratulated Youssouf on his election and expressed confidence in his ability to steer the organization towards achieving its strategic objectives.
Youssouf is set to begin his four-year term in March 2025, during which he will oversee the implementation of key initiatives outlined in the AU’s Agenda 2063, focusing on sustainable development, integration, and prosperity for all African citizens.
The election of Youssouf signifies a pivotal moment for the African Union, reflecting a commitment to experienced leadership in navigating the complexities facing the continent. Member states and observers alike are optimistic that his tenure will usher in a period of renewed focus on unity, stability, and progress across Africa.
Source: Sino-Africa Insider